Unfortunately, hearing loss isn’t unheard of among young kids, but with the proper type of hearing aid most children can greatly improve their hearing and speaking ability. If you are in the process of trying to select a hearing aid for your boy or girl, the sheer number of functions, sizes and styles available can be staggering. There are some styles that can be more appropriate for youngsters than others, so keep reading to explore what design might work best for your child.
The two main types of hearing aids that work well for children: In-the-ear (ITE) and behind-the-ear (BTE). Unlike adults, children are constantly growing and developing, making frequent hearing aid adjustment important. The two main different types of hearing aids that are most easy to fine-tune are BTE and ITE products, and that is much of the reason they are commonly chosen for children. ITE hearing aids are small units in plastic cases that fit within the outer part of a child’s ear. These hearing aids can incorporate various other solutions, like telecoil. BTE hearing aids are usually more recognizable because of their plastic case that is placed behind the ear. A plastic earmold delivers sound to the child’s ear and is also connected to the case by a small piece of tubing. Mild to severe hearing issues are treated by both types of equipment.
Hearing aid selection can be harder if your child experiences other forms of health conditions. Children with misshapen ears may find BTEhearing aids tough to wear. For a number of children, a very shallow ear canal might not present ample space to allow for ITE hearing aids. Kids with an extreme build-up of ear wax may not be good prospects for ITE devices given that it can interfere with the device performance.
The most effective way to find the best hearing aid for your child is to speak with your hearing specialist. Your child’s unique needs will be considered by a specialist to make the most informed professional recommendation. You can also turn to this professional to learn more about your own role in maximizing your child’s hearing. Young children may not be able to remove, put in, or adjust their hearing aids, making it up to you to ensure they are comfortable and hearing at their best.
While finding the right hearing aid can be confusing and discouraging, with time and research you will find the ideal product for your child.